In a game of poker, each player starts with an Ante, which is a small amount of money that is placed into the pot before the game begins. Then, the dealer deals five cards to each player. A hand is considered “fair” when it has five cards of the same rank. Likewise, two identical pairs are also considered fair. After the deal, betting begins. Players can raise or call depending on their starting hand. They usually buy in for the same amount.

A player who raises will have the opportunity to bet during each betting interval. Players with a good hand should maximize their earnings and minimize their losses. Some Poker rules also require players to put their ante into the pot. Depending on the type of game that you are playing, you may not have to do this step. Once you’ve called a showdown, you’ll be presented with a full hand of cards that can win the pot.

The first phase of poker play is the pre-flop. When the cards are dealt, each player makes a bet on each of the three community cards. Then, the players compete for the pot by placing their remaining chips in the pot. The round of betting ends when all players have called, checked or folded. If one player raises more than another, he is considered “called” by all other players. If the betting is over at that point, the hand is declared “drawn” and the next player in line is dealt two cards.